Wichita County officials propose centralized vehicle title management system

Wichita County officials are set to streamline vehicle title management following a recent discussion at the Commissioner’s Court meeting on June 13, 2025. The court unanimously agreed to centralize the storage of vehicle titles within the county auditor's office, a move aimed at improving accountability and reducing confusion over asset ownership.

Historically, each department maintained its own titles for vehicles and equipment, leading to discrepancies and lost documents. This new policy will ensure that all county-owned vehicles are titled under Wichita County, simplifying the process for tracking and managing these assets. The decision comes after concerns were raised about the difficulty in locating titles for vehicles purchased over the years, with some dating back to 1977.

Commissioner Beecham emphasized the importance of this change, noting that it would help prevent the misplacement of titles and facilitate easier access for departments when selling or trading vehicles. The court discussed the potential for a more organized system, where titles would be filed by department, allowing for quick retrieval during transactions.

In addition to the title management policy, the court also reviewed travel advance procedures, proposing a modest increase in meal allowances for county employees. This adjustment, the first in over a decade, aims to better reflect current costs and support employee wellness during travel.

The court plans to finalize these changes in upcoming sessions, reinforcing its commitment to efficient governance and responsible management of county resources. As these policies take effect, county officials anticipate a smoother operation and enhanced accountability in asset management.